Global health disparities persist, exacerbated by interlinked food, climate, and economic crises, and healthcare commercialization. Indigenous communities face compounded challenges due to colonial disruptions, leading to substance abuse and mental health issues. Emphasizing holistic well-being, the article advocates for integrating indigenous healing practices with Western medicine, community-led initiatives, and policy reforms. Empowerment through self-definition is crucial for improving indigenous health outcomes. The interconnectedness of health, biodiversity, and ecosystem services is highlighted, noting species loss impacts on indigenous well-being. While complementary medicine (e.g., Switzerland’s framework) offers insights, achieving health equity requires cultural-environmental perspectives and urgent action. The analysis questions the feasibility of equitable health systems amid structural barriers.
Mirjam Hirch (Wed,) studied this question.